Mary-Jane has been having some restless evenings and nights. This is what has kept me away from blogging (and knitting). Just something to be expected really, and we have been very lucky with her sleep pattern so far. Some of the days she has been tired, following a not good night. She won't let herself take a nap. At best she will have a 'slob' on Daddy, a rest and relax and a cuddle on Mommy's lap and that will do her.
I did manage to get out to the WI on Wednesday evening. The speaker was a lady who weaved. I was taught and weaved a fish on a fishing line out of willow. No picures as yet. When I got back, Mary-Jane was exercising her lungs and definitely not asleep!
Thursday, I acted on a decision. I have decided not to continue with The Country Market for the foreseeable. It broke my heart to reach this decision. The main reason for this is that, as HK is on benefits and is claiming for me, we are only allowed to make £10 per week, anything above that is deducted from our benefit. I would also have to keep formal accounts and show these and invoices etc each time HK signed on. I would have to be classes as Self Employed. All the paperwork and financial deductions do not make it a viable concern for me. The amount I would make at the market is not much, it is pin money rather than money to support a family. I was enjoying trying out the market and did see it as a long term starting point, to build upon. But I can't do it for £10 per week and do formal accounts etc. It just doesn't equate.
I spoke with the Ladies there and let them know. They were in the main quite flabbergasted at the situation. The Country Markets, or the WI Market, as it was previously known, was set up in the post war years, all over the country. They were to help women with families to get back on their feet, to use surplus garden produce etc and to make money to help support their families etc. I think I quite fitted this ethic. But in today's modern times, things are different. If I sold my home bakes at the market and didn't declare it to the social it would be deemed as Benefit Fraud.
I shall have to find a different way. I am down but not beaten.
On to Happier Thoughts. Mary-Jane has taught herself a new yogu postion. Yogu, is yoga, on a childrens programme 'Waybuloo'. Today she did The Kite. She put her hands above her head so the palms and finger tips were touching, then whilst sat down, bought her head to her knees. I was so proud of her. She copied this from the tv. I am so proud of her.
I have been continuing with my ASJ (Adult Surprise Jacket) when I have time. I am a little dubious about proportions. I am thinking that it may be too wide and not long enough. I will continue with it and have some blind faith. All the others have worked wonderfully, so there is not real reason why this one shouldn't. I am a few ridges into the first increases.
